The father referred to here is that of John the Baptist. Zechariah was an elderly priest married to Elizabeth. Elizabeth was Mary's (mother of Jesus) relative... we assume cousin. When Gabriel appeared to Zechariah to tell him they would have a baby, he didn't believe it. As a consequence for not believing what an angel of God told him, he was struck mute. The verse quoted above were the first words from Zechariah's mouth months later after John was born. He prophesied that through this birth, God would redeem Israel. It was this baby, John the Baptist who would later baptize Jesus and pave the way for his ministry to begin. It was also this baby who would one day meet his death in a senseless beheading. It's a wonder how God uses people to fulfill his purposes. Who knows... maybe God is using you to pave the way for someone else who will one day change the world for the better. If you ever find yourself feeling worthless or useless, trust in God, knowing that through your faithfulness, you are being employed for his work. You matter. Believe it!
Readings: Numbers 22:21-23:30; Luke 1:57-80; Psalm 58:1-11; Proverbs 11:12-13
